Modular CPU enclosure for gaming machines

ABSTRACT

A removable processor enclosure apparatus for use in a gaming machine having a housing defining an interior portion, and a first electrical connector disposed in the interior portion. The enclosure apparatus includes an enclosure containing the CPU electrical components therein, and is adapted for sliding receipt in the interior portion of the gaming machine housing between a mounting condition and a removal condition. In the mounting condition, the enclosure is mounted to the housing and electrically coupling a second electrical connector of the enclosure to the first electrical connector of the housing. In the removal condition, the enclosure can be removed from the housing. A release device is interengaged between the housing and the enclosure, and is selectively movable between a first position, locking the enclosure in the mounting condition, and a second position, releasing the enclosure from the mounting condition to the removal condition and disconnecting the second electrical connector from the first electrical connector.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/687,243 entitled “MODULAR CPU ENCLOSURE FORGAMING MACHINES,” filed on Oct. 13, 2000, and now issued as U.S. Pat.No. 6.699,128, which is incorporated by reference herein for allpurposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as slot machinesor video poker machines. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to enclosures applied to protect the primary electricalcomponents operating the gaming machines.

2. Description of the Prior Art

As technology in the gaming industry progresses, the once traditionalmechanically-driven reel slot machines have been replaced withelectronic counterparts having CRT video displays or the like. Thesevideo/electronic gaming advancements enable the operation of morecomplex gambling games, which would not otherwise be possible onmechanical-driven gambling machines. For example, in addition to reelslot machines, it is now common to observe stand alone or multipleplatform video electronic games including Keno, Blackjack, Poker, PaiGow, and all the variations thereof, in even the smallest gamingestablishments. These electronic game devices may comprise numerousinternal electrical components including, for example, a power supply, alighted display and a Central Processing Unit (CPU).

The CPU, which generally controls the parameters and features of thegame being played (E.g., the type of game and its pay-out), is one ofthe most critical components of the gaming device. Accordingly, it isimperative to prevent unauthorized access to avoid CPU tampering.

In most current configurations, the CPU is attached to a motherboardwhich in turn is mounted to the gaming machine through a sliding tray.This tray is then manually mounted into the gaming machine where thecorresponding electrical connectors are mated for operation thereof. Ascan be appreciated, by sliding the tray in and out, the CPU may beserviced, replaced or otherwise accessed.

One problem associated with this design, however, is that the forcesrequired to simultaneously connect and disconnect these connectors canbe substantial. By way of example, each connector pin and correspondingsocket of the mating connectors may require forces of up to ¼ lb each toconnect or disconnect the respective pin. Therefore, in some instances,forces in excess of about 50 lbs. may be needed to connect and/ordisconnect a 200 pin connector. Insertion and removal of the CPU tray,consequently, may be difficult during routine maintenance. In someinstances, the pins/connectors may be damaged (e.g., bent) during forcedmanipulation, while in other instances injuries may occur during trayinsertion and removal.

Another problem associated with this design is that the CPU tray may beinadvertently removed while the motherboard and the CPU are stillpowered. Known as hot swapping, in some cases, arcing can occur betweenthe powered connectors which can damage the contacts and/or pins. In theworst case scenario, a fire or a significant amount of internalcomponent damage can occur.

In view of the foregoing, it would be desirable to provide a modularenclosure for the CPU and other critical electrical components of thegaming device which protects these components from tampering, whilefurther facilitating interconnection to the gaming machine

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is therefore directed to an electronic gamingmachine which includes a housing defining an interior portion, and afirst electrical connector disposed inside the housing. A modularelectronic enclosure is arranged to securably enclose the electricalcomponents essential to the operation of the gaming machine therein.This enclosure is further adapted to be received in the housing interiorportion between a mounting condition and a removal condition. In themounting condition, the modular enclosure is mounted to the housing in amanner electrically connecting a second electrical connector of theprimary electrical components with the first electrical connector. Inthe removal condition, the enclosure may be released to enable removalof the modular enclosure therefrom and electrically disconnecting thesecond electrical connector from the first electrical connector.

In one embodiment, to facilitate release of the modular electronicenclosure, a release device cooperates between the modular enclosure andthe housing, and is selectively movable between a first position and asecond position. In the first position, the release device locks themodular enclosure in the mounting condition, and in the second position,the release device releases the modular enclosure from the mountingcondition for movement toward the removal condition

The release device includes a cam portion interengaged between themodular enclosure and the housing to facilitate insertion anddisengagement of the second electrical connector into and from the firstelectrical connector. The cam portion further aids movement of themodular enclosure toward the mounting condition as the release device ismoved toward the first position and, aids movement of the modularenclosure toward the removal condition as the release device is movedtoward the second position.

In another aspect of the present invention, a removable processorenclosure apparatus is provided for use in a gaming machine, whichincludes an enclosure securably containing the CPU electrical componentsin an interior space thereof. The enclosure is adapted for slidingreceipt in the interior portion of the gaming machine housing between amounting condition, mounting the enclosure to the housing andelectrically coupling a second electrical connector of the enclosure tothe first electrical connector of the housing, and a removal condition,enabling removal of the enclosure from the housing. The enclosurefurther includes a door movably mounted between an open position and aclosed position. In the opened position, access is allowed to theinterior space, while in the closed position, access is prevented to theinterior space. A lock mechanism cooperates between the door and theenclosure to prevent movement of the door from the closed position tothe open position.

In one embodiment, a release device is provided interengaged between thegaming machine housing and the enclosure, and selectively movable from afirst position, locking the enclosure in the mounting condition, and asecond position, releasing the enclosure from the mounting condition tothe removal condition and disconnecting the second electrical connectorfrom the first electrical connector. The release device is preferablypositioned in the interior of the enclosure, so that when the door is inthe closed position, it is operably inaccessible. However, when the dooris in the opened condition, the release device is accessible, and can beoperated to remove the entire enclosure.

In still another aspect of the present invention, a modular processorenclosure apparatus for use in a gaming machine. The gaming machineincludes a power source and a first electrical connector disposed in theinterior portion of the housing. The enclosure apparatus includes anenclosure containing the CPU electrical components therein, and isadapted for sliding receipt in the interior portion of the gamingmachine housing between a mounting condition and a removal condition. Inthe mounting condition, the enclosure is mounted to the housing in amanner electrically connecting a second electrical connector of theenclosure to the first electrical connector of the housing. In theremoval condition, the enclosure may be removed from the housing in amanner electrically disconnecting the second electrical connector of theenclosure from the first electrical connector of the housing. A sensordevice is configured to couple the power source to the electricalcomponents when the housing is in the mounting condition and to decouplethe power source from the electrical components when the modularenclosure is moved from the mounting condition toward the removalcondition. This electrical decoupling occurs prior to the electricaldisconnection of the second electrical connector from the firstelectrical connector.

In this configuration, a release device may be included which isinterengaged between the gaming machine housing and the enclosure. Therelease device is selectively movable from a first position, locking theenclosure in the mounting condition, and a second position, releasingthe enclosure from the mounting condition to the removal condition anddisconnecting the second electrical connector from the first electricalconnector. Preferably, the sensor device is configured to cooperate withthe release device to activate power to the power source when therelease device is moved to the first position, and to decouple the powersource from the electrical components when the release device is movedtoward the second position

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The assembly of the present invention has other objects and features ofadvantage which will be more readily apparent from the followingdescription of the best mode of carrying out the invention and theappended claims, when taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawing, in which:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a gaming machine incorporating theCPU enclosure of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a reduced, top perspective view of the gaming machine in FIG.1, and illustrating the CPU enclosure constructed in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged, fragmentary, side elevation view of the CPUenclosure of FIG. 2 illustrated in a removal condition.

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, side elevation view of the CPU enclosure ofFIG. 3 in a mounted condition.

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the CPU enclosure of FIG. 2, havinga door in a closed position.

FIG. 6 is a rear plan view of the CPU enclosure of FIG. 2.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged, fragmentary, side elevation view of a securingdevice taken substantially along the plane of the line 7—7 in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the CPU enclosure of FIG. 5, havingthe door in an opened position.

FIG. 9 is a reduced, exploded view, of the CPU enclosure of FIG. 5.

FIGS. 10A–10E is a sequence of enlarged, fragmentary, side elevationviews of a release device of the present invention interengaging a tabmember of the support member to connect the electrical connectors.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, fragmentary, front elevation view, incross-section, of a handle member and sliding bar of the release device.

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, enlarged, side elevation view of a lockingdevice of the release device taken substantially along the planes of theline 12—12 in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a diagram of the power control circuit in accordance with thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present invention will be described with reference to a fewspecific embodiments, the description is illustrative of the inventionand is not to be construed as limiting the invention. Variousmodifications to the present invention can be made to the preferredembodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the truespirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Itwill be noted here that for a better understanding, like components aredesignated by like reference numerals throughout the various Figures.

Attention is now directed to FIGS. 1–7 where the present inventionmodular enclosure apparatus, generally designated 20, is illustrated foruse in a video gaming machine 21. These conventional gaming machinesinclude a housing 22 defining an interior portion 23 therein, and afirst electrical connector 26 disposed in the interior portion 23. ACentral Processing Unit (CPU) enclosure, generally designated 25, isprovided securably containing the CPU electrical components therein.This enclosure is further adapted for sliding receipt in the interiorportion 23 of the gaming machine housing 22 between a removal condition(FIG. 3) and a mounting condition (FIG. 4). In the mounting condition,the enclosure 25 is mounted to the housing 22 in a manner electricallycoupling a second electrical connector 27 of the enclosure 25 to thefirst electrical connector 26 of the housing 22. In the removalcondition, the enclosure 25 can be removed from the housing 22, and thesecond electrical connector 27 is disconnected from the first electricalconnector 26 during removal.

Accordingly, a secured enclosure is provided for the CPU (not shown) andother primary electrical components essential to the CPU and to thegaming machine, which may be easily connected and disconnected to andfrom the machine. This design, thus, is configured to be a modularcomponent which facilitates simple replacement and removal of the unit.Moreover, this assembly substantially reduces unauthorized access tothese primary electronic components while the enclosure is mounted inthe gaming machine. Modularity also provides several other competitiveadvantages such as the ease of assembly and servicing. For example,modules requiring repair or replacement can be easily exchanged, therebysignificantly reducing servicing down-time. Additionally, other gameswhich are functional on the same game machine platform can be easilyintroduced by interchanging the CPU enclosure.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 9, the gaming machine housing 22 isillustrated including a main cabinet 28 and a cabinet door 29 (shown inits open position in FIG. 2) enabling access to the interior portion 23.A conventional cabinet locking device (not shown) locks the cabinet door29 to the main cabinet 28 to prevent unauthorized access by gamingpatrons. Briefly, the housing 22 may include an upper shelf 30 forming amonitor compartment 31 dimensioned to receive and support a displaymonitor 32 therein. Positioned below the upper shelf 30 is a lowercompartment 33 containing other essential gaming machine electroniccomponents 35 therein. Further included in the lower compartment 33 isan enclosure support member 36 mounted to the housing 22, and adaptedfor sliding receipt and support of the CPU enclosure 25 therein. In thisarrangement, the CPU enclosure 25 is slidably supported in the supportmember 36 between the mounting condition (FIG. 4), mountably securingthe enclosure to the support member of the housing 22 in a mannerelectrically coupling a second electrical connector 27 of the enclosure25 to the first electrical connector 26, and the removal condition (FIG.3), enabling removal of the enclosure 25 from the housing 22, and thesecond electrical connector 27 is disconnected from the first electricalconnector 26 during removal.

The enclosure support member 36 is generally in the shape of arectangular sleeve which defines a pocket 37 accessible through a frontopening thereof. This rectangular dimension, however, may vary accordingto the specific design of each gaming system. The pocket 37 is sized anddimensioned slightly larger than the rectangular transversecross-sectional dimension of the CPU enclosure 25 for sliding matingalignment between the first electrical connector 26 positioned at therear of the support member 36 and the second electrical connectorpositioned at the rear of the CPU enclosure 25 (FIG. 4). Such slidingalignment may be provided by conventional alignment techniques.

Briefly, the CPU enclosure 25 generally contains the CPU (not shown) andother essential electrical components necessary for controlling the gameoperation during play. In addition to the CPU, for instance, otheressential components may include integrated circuit chips and othercircuitry to provide computing operations associated with operating thegaming machine 21. The integrated circuit chips and other circuitry mayinclude a microprocessor, memory components (e.g., Read-Only Memory(ROM), Random-Access Memory (RAM)), a disk drive, CD-Rom or DVD storagemedium, a battery, various input/output (I/O) support circuitry and thelike.

When the CPU enclosure is operably mounted to the support member 36 inthe mounting condition, the input and output connections of thesecomponents will be reliably connected with the corresponding connectionsof the gaming machine (i.e., through the first and second electricalconnectors). By way of example, the gaming machine display 32, as wellas the various player input switches, buttons, etc, for selectingoptions associated with the game being played will be interconnectedwith the CPU. This enables the play, operation and control of any videogame such as Slots, Keno, Blackjack, Poker, Pai Gow or the like.

Although the gaming machine has been described and shown in context of aconventional upright gaming machine, it should be understood that othergaming machine cabinet designs may be used which are well known in theart. These may include, but are not limited to, slant top gamingmachines, flat top gaming machines, such as bar table gaming machine. Itshould also be noted that, while not specifically shown, this gamingmachine platform typically includes all the other conventional gamingmachine components that are either internal or external to the maincabinet. These include, for example, a bill validator, a coin hopper, alock enclosure, and a power supply, which may be located within the maincabinet, and a coin/bill acceptor and a card reader, a lighted displayand a sound system.

Turning now to FIGS. 3–5, 8 and 9, the CPU enclosure 25 will bedescribed in detail. The CPU enclosure 25 generally includes a securedrectangular enclosure structure which is adapted to secure and enclosethe essential CPU electrical components 35 in an interior compartment 46thereof. The enclosure 25 includes two opposed side walls 41, a baseplate 40, which encloses the bottom of the CPU enclosure 25, and a topplate 42, which encloses the top of the CPU enclosure 25. At the rear ofthe enclosure is a back plate 43, supporting the second electricalconnector 27. A front plate 45 separates the interior compartment 46from a front access space 47, as will be discussed below.

Enclosing the front access space 47 is a front door 49 which is coupledto the enclosure 25 between a closed condition (FIGS. 4 and 5),preventing access to front access space 47 of the CPU enclosure, and anopened condition (FIGS. 3 and 8), enabling access to front access space.Preferably, the front door 49 is pivotally mounted to the base plate 40of the enclosure 25 through a hinge mechanism 48. This enables the door49 to selectively rotate between the opened position and closed positionwith respect to the enclosure 25. Once the door 49 is moved to theopened condition, selected components contained within the front accessspace of the CPU enclosure 25 become accessible such as a disk or CD/ROMdrive 50, selected input/output connectors and the like. As will bediscussed, a lock mechanism 51 is disposed between the door 49 and theenclosure structure to prevent unauthorized access through the door tothe enclosure front access space.

The top plate 42 is removably mounted to the enclosure 25 to providephysical access into the internal components housed inside the CPUenclosure 25. However, the top plate 42 is slideably mounted to theenclosure, and may only be slideably removed, in the direction of arrow52 in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the door 49 is in the opened condition, andwhen the CPU enclosure is moved to the removal condition. This conceptprevents unauthorized removal of the top plate 42 when the enclosure 25is in the mounting condition.

First, the top plate 42 includes a front lip portion 53 which dependsdownwardly into the front access space 47 (FIGS. 4 and 9). When the door49 is positioned in the closed condition, the lip portion 53 is arrangedto impact the door 49 which interferes with the sliding movement in thedirection of arrow 52. As shown in FIG. 3, however, once the door 49 isrotated to the opened condition, such interference with the front lipportion 53 is removed and the top plate will be free to slideably movein the direction of arrow 52.

Secondly, referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, a securing device 55 isprovided which releasably secures the top plate 42 to the enclosure 25.As shown, this securing device 55 is positioned at the back plate 43 ofthe enclosure, and is disposed in a recess 56 thereof. Thus, when theCPU structure 38 is mounted to the support member 36 in the mountedcondition (FIG. 4), the proximity of the back wall 57 of the supportmember 36 and the back plate 43 of the enclosure 25 prevent operableaccess to the securing device 55.

The securing device 55 includes a pin plunger 58 secured to theenclosure 25 which is biased toward an engaging position (FIG. 7)securably engaging the top plate 42. To retain the top plate 42, a rampplate 54 is included on the bottom side thereof which defines a pin slot60 strategically placed to receive the pin plunger when the top plate 42is fully slid onto the enclosure 25. Accordingly, the pin plunger 58must be manually withdrawn from the pin slot 60 (shown in phantom linesin FIG. 7) to enable release of the top plate. It will further beappreciated that the ramp plate 54 includes a ramp portion 59 which isconfigured to depress the pin plunger 58 until the pin plunger isreceived and engaged in the pin slot 60 when the top plate is slideablyremounted to the enclosure 25.

In accordance with one aspect of the enclosure device, selected wallsthereof are preferably arranged to reduce the transmission of electronicemissions into and out of the CPU enclosure 25. This arrangement shieldselectronic emission sensitive components from such harmful emissions. Insome instances, the internal electrical components in the CPU enclosure25 may themselves generate these emissions, while in others cases, theemissions may be generated by the electrical components of adjacentgaming machines or any other piece of electronic equipment. In order toeffectively reduce electronic emission exposure, the enclosure 25 isconfigured to fully enclose the CPU and other electronic components ofthe CPU enclosure 25. The opposed side walls 41 define a plurality ofapertures 61 extending therethrough to provide a ventilation pathway tocool the internal components contained in the CPU enclosure 25. In thepreferred form, the apertures 61 are hexagonal in design, and aregenerally equally spaced-apart. This array of aligned apertures 61cooperate to facilitate attenuation of the electronic emissions. Suchdesigns are set forth in the Instrument Specialties, Inc. catalog, 1999.Another technique employed to reduce emission exposure is to compose theenclosure 25 from a suitable shielding material, such as eighteen (18)gauge sheet metal.

As above-indicated, the front access space 47 of the CPU enclosure 25provides limited access to selected components contained therein. In theillustrated embodiment, the front access space 47 is formed between thedoor 49, in the closed position, and a front plate 45 disposed betweenthe back plate 43 and the door 49. The front plate 45 further cooperateswith a portion of the base plate 40, a portion of the top plate 42, anda portion of at least one of the side walls 41 to not only define thefront access space 47, but to further prevent unauthorized access to theinterior compartment 46 of the enclosure 25. Accordingly, when the dooris moved to the opened condition (FIGS. 3 and 8), the front access space47 is accessible, while the interior compartment 46 remainsinaccessible. In most configurations, the front plate 45 is positionedin close proximity to the cabinet door 29 of the housing 22 for easyaccess thereto without removing the CPU enclosure 25 from the gamingmachine 21.

As shown, the front plate 45 includes a plurality of openings 62therethrough to provide limited access to selected electrical connectors63 suitable for connection to external peripheral devices (e.g. network,computer, electronic key, disk drives, key board, monitor, mouse and thelike). This arrangement enables the uploading and/or downloading ofinformation between an external device (not shown) and the electricalcomponents housed inside the CPU enclosure 25. In the preferredembodiment, at least one of the external connectors 63 may be dedicatedas an electronic key which allows electrical access to the essentialelectronics inside the CPU enclosure 25. Such external connectors 63,for instance, may include a serial port, a parallel port, a UniversalSerial Bus (USB) port, an Ethernet port and the like. Thus, duringmaintenance or testing, a technician would only be required open thecabinet door 29, and move the front door 49 of the CPU enclosure to theopened condition to access these external connectors.

A further peripheral that may be directly accessible, in certainjurisdictions, in the front access space 47 is a CD/ROM drive 50 mountedto the front plate 45. Shock mounts 66 (FIG. 9) may be used to supportthe CD/ROM drive 50 within the CPU enclosure 25 in order to protect thedrive from damage that may be caused by sudden shocks or vibrations.These conventional shock mounts 66 may also be used on other componentscontained inside enclosure 25 (e.g., hard drive). Particular advantagesof a CD/ROM drive is the large amount of data that can be stored and thespeed at which the stored data can be retrieved. Correspondingly, theCD/ROM drive 50 may be used to download software associated with thegaming machine 21 or run diagnostic software for determining problems.It should be understood, however, that this is not a limitation and thatother types of computer readable media may be used (e.g., floppy, DVDROM drive, hard disk drive, magneto-optical disk drive, and magnetictape drive).

Referring now to FIGS. 3, 4 and 6, the back plate 43 is illustratedsupporting the second electrical connectors 27 thereon. These connectors27 are adapted to be mated with corresponding first electricalconnectors 26 that are disposed inside the enclosure support member 36.Once the CPU enclosure 25 is slideably mounted to the enclosure supportmember 36, in the mounting condition, the first and second electricalconnectors 27 are aligned and mated to one another for operablecommunication therebetween (FIG. 3) In this manner, the CPU enclosure 25may be operatively coupled to electrical components of the gamingmachine 21 when the CPU enclosure 25 is disposed inside the supportmember 36 in the mounting condition. Preferably, these electricalconnectors may be provided by two 96 pin LFH style connectors. It shouldbe noted, however, that the type and amount of connectors may varyaccording to the specific needs of each gaming system. For example, oneconnector or a plurality of connectors may be used, and other suitableconnectors such as DIN, IEEE 1301, COMPACT PCI may be suitably employed.

In accordance with the present invention, the CPU enclosure 25incorporates a release device, generally designated 67, which is adaptedto facilitate the insertion and extraction of the CPU enclosure 25relative to the gaming machine. More particularly, the release device 67is interengaged between the enclosure 25 and the enclosure supportmember 36 to facilitate movement of the CPU enclosure 25 from theremoval condition (FIG. 3) to the mounting condition (FIG. 4), whichoperably connects the second electrical connectors 27 of the CPUenclosure to the first electrical connectors 26 of the gaming machine,and from the mounting condition to the removal condition, which operablydisconnects the electrical connectors 26, 27. This leverage arrangementis advantageous since, as mentioned above, the force required to connectand disconnect these multiple electrical connectors can be substantial.

As best viewed in FIGS. 3, 4 and 8, the release device 67 is disposed inthe front access space 47 of the CPU enclosure 25 so that it cannot bemanually operated when the front door 49 of the CPU enclosure is closedor locked. To operate the release device 67, in order to remove the CPUenclosure 25 from the enclosure support, the front door 49 of the CPUenclosure must be in the opened condition (FIGS. 3 and 8). In thepreferred embodiment, the release device 67 cooperates between themodular enclosure 25 and the gaming machine housing 22 for selectivemanual movement between a first position (FIGS. 4 and 10D) and a secondposition (FIGS. 3, 6 and 10B). In the first position, the release device67 locks the modular enclosure 25 in the mounting condition, while inthe second position, the release device 67 releases the modularenclosure 25 from the mounting condition for movement toward the removalcondition.

More preferably, FIGS. 3, 4 and 8 illustrate that the release device 67includes a manually operable lever portion 68 and a cam portion 70coupled to an end thereof. The cam portion 70 and lever portion 68 arerotatably coupled to a lever support 71, which is structurally attachedto the base plate 40, for movement about a pivotal axis 72 between thefirst position and the second position. In the first position, as shownin FIG. 4, the lever portion 68 is oriented in a substantially uprightposition in the front access space 47 to enable closure of the door. Inthe second position, the lever portion 68 is rotated outwardly from thefront access space 47 to the angled orientation shown in FIGS. 3 and 8.

When the release device 67 is rotated from the first position to thesecond position, the CPU enclosure 25 is urged partially out of thesupport member 36 as the enclosure moves from the mounting condition(FIG. 4) to the removal condition (FIG. 3). As a result, the second orCPU enclosure electrical connector 27 is operably disconnected from thefirst or gaming machine electrical connector 26. Conversely, when therelease device 67 is rotated from the second position to the firstposition, the CPU enclosure 25 is urged from the removal condition tothe mounting condition, electrically connecting the enclosure electricalconnector 27 to the gaming machine electrical connector 26.

In accordance with the present invention, the release device applies theprinciples of leverage between the CPU enclosure and the support member36 to generate a force sufficient to connect and disconnect theenclosure electrical connector 27 and the gaming machine electricalconnector 26. This arrangement minimizes damage to the associatedconnector pins, while further reducing potential injury to maintenancepersonnel caused by the aforementioned connections.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A–10E, the cam portion 70 of the release device67 is illustrated including a first cam surface 73, and an opposedsecond cam surface 75, which collectively define a downwardly facingdetent 76. When the release device 67 is oriented in the secondposition, this detent 76 is formed and positioned for receipt of a tabmember 77 of the enclosure support member 36 as the CPU enclosure 25 isslid in the direction of arrow 78 into the pocket 37 of support member36 (FIG. 10A). Such sliding movement continues until a first cam surface73 of the cam portion 70 abuts against a first contact surface 80 of thetab member 77 in a “set position” of FIG. 10B.

Once the CPU enclosure is retained in the “set position” of FIG. 10B,the lever portion 68 of the release device 67 can be manually rotated inthe clockwise direction of arrow 81. As shown, a second tooth portion 82is then received in a second opening 83 in the support member 36 untilthe second cam surface 75 contacts the second contact surface 87 of thetab member 77 (FIG. 10C). At this orientation, the second tooth portion82 effectively prevents any uninterferred withdrawal of the CPUenclosure 25 from the pocket 37 of the enclosure support member 36 dueto contact with the second contact surface 87 of the tab member 77.

Upon further clockwise rotation about axis 72 in the direction of arrow81 (i.e., from the second position toward the first position), the CPUenclosure 25 is urged in the direction of arrow 78 from the removalcondition (FIGS. 3, 10B and 10C) to the mounting condition (FIGS. 4 and10D). Consequently, the enclosure electrical connector 27 will beelectrically coupled to the Gaming machine electrical connector 26,while the CPU enclosure 25 will be releasably mounted to the supportmember 36. Moreover, in this first position of the release device 67(FIGS. 4 and 10D), the door 49 can then be moved to the closed position,and the CPU enclosure 25 is locked into the gaming machine.

To remove the CPU enclosure 25, the lever portion 68 is rotated counterclockwise in the direction of arrow 86 (FIG. 10E) where a first toothportion 88 of the cam portion 70 is initially received in the a firstopening 90 in the support member 36. Counter-clockwise rotationcontinues until the first cam surface 73 of the cam portion 70 contactsthe first contact surface 80 of the tab member 77. Upon furthercounter-clockwise rotation of the lever portion 68 from the firstposition (FIGS. 4 and 10D) back toward the second (FIGS. 3 and 10B), theCPU enclosure 25 is urged in the direction of arrow 91 (FIG. 10E) fromthe mounting condition to the removal condition (i.e., the “setposition” of FIG. 10B). This leveraged action, as a result, urgeselectrical disconnection of the enclosure electrical connector 27 fromthe Gaming machine electrical connector 26, while the CPU enclosure 25will be released from the support member 36. Further, the second toothportion 82 of the cam portion 70 is withdrawn from the second opening 83and any impeding contact with the second contact surface 87 of the tabmember 77 so that the CPU enclosure can be removed from the enclosuresupport member 36.

During insertion of the CPU enclosure 25 into pocket 37 of the enclosuresupport member 36, the cam portion 70 cooperates with the tab member 77to prevent damaging contact between the enclosure electrical connector27 and the gaming machine electrical connector 26. FIGS. 10A and 10Billustrate that when the cam portion 70 is oriented in the secondposition, the first tooth portion 88 is configured to extend below thebase plate 40 of the enclosure 25 while the second tooth portion 82 isoriented out of interfering contact with the tab member 77 of thesupport member 36. Thus, the first cam surface 73 of the first toothportion 88 effectively functions as a stop device upon abutting thefirst contact surface 80 of the tab member 77. This limits the insertionof the CPU enclosure 25 into the enclosure support member 36 prior tocontact between the mating electrical connectors. This arrangement,accordingly, prevents the CPU connectors from inadvertent damagingcontact with the gaming machine connectors during insertion into theenclosure support.

It will be understood, however, that if the release device is orientedin the first position of FIG. 10D when the CPU enclosure 25 is notmounted to the support member 36, the outer surface of the second toothportion 82 will also contact the first contact surface 80 of the tabmember 77 for impeding contact, if the enclosure is pushed into thepocket 37 of the support member. Accordingly, in either orientation ofthe release device 67, the cam portion 70 prevents damaging contactbetween the electrical connectors prior to selective operation of thelever portion 68.

Referring now to FIGS. 8, 9, 11 and 12, the release device 67 includes alocking device 92 adapted to secure the lever portion 68 in one of thefirst position and the second position relative the pair of opposedlever supports 71. In the preferred embodiment, the lever portion 68generally includes a handle member 93 having a pair of leg portions 95mounted to the cam portion 70 at a distal end thereof. The lockingdevice 92 includes a U-shaped sliding bar 96 carried within the insideportion of the handle member 93, and having a pair of opposed armportions 97 slideably mounted to the corresponding leg portions 95. Asthe opposed arm portions slide along the longitudinal axes of the legportions of the handle member 93, the sliding bar moves toward and awayfrom engagement with the corresponding lever supports. A biasing device98, preferably in the form of a compression spring, biases the slidingbar 96 in a direction towards the lever support 71.

At the distal tip of each arm portion 97 is a finger portion 100 formedand dimensioned to engage strategically positioned slots 101 in thelever support 71 at the first and second positions to retain the leverportion 68 thereat. To release the locking device 92, the operator wouldcompress the sliding bar 96 and the handle member 93, compressing thebiasing device 98, and withdrawing the respective finger portion fromthe corresponding slot. Conversely, to engage the locking device 92 toretain the lever portion at one of the first and second positions, thesliding bar 96 can be released which enables the compression spring toextend the finger portion 100 into one of the slots 101.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the CPUenclosure includes a safety interlock system arranged to interrupt powerto the CPU enclosure 25 from the main power supply of the gaming machine21 in the event an attempt is made to remove or insert the CPU enclosurewhile power is still applied to the enclosure. As mentioned, thisconfiguration prevents component damage caused by arcing between the CPUelectrical connector and the gaming machine electrical connector whilecurrent is still flowing therebetween (i.e., by hot swapping).

In one embodiment, the safety interlock system includes a sensing device102 adapted to detect movement of the CPU enclosure to and from themounting condition. Upon movement detection, a logic control circuit103, illustrated in FIG. 13, instructs the main power supply topower-off. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 8 and 9, the sensingdevice 102 includes a tongue 105 extending outwardly from the handlemember 93 of the lever portion 68. The tongue 105 is adapted to engageand depress a sensor switch 106 accessible through an aperture 107 inthe front plate 45 when the release device 67 is oriented in the firstposition (FIG. 4). Upon counter-clockwise rotational movement of therelease device 67 from the first position to the second position (FIGS.3 and 8), the tongue 105 disengages from the sensor switch 106,signaling the logic circuit 103 to power-off the main power supply.Thus, the sensor switch 106 generates a first signal when the switch isdepressed, and a second signal when not depressed. The first signalpreferably corresponds to a power-on signal, while the second signalgenerally corresponds to a power-off signal.

Correspondingly, when the release device 67 is initially rotated fromthe first position to the second position, to disconnect the matedconnectors 26, 27, the sensor switch 106 contacts are opened and themain power supply is de-energized (if the main power switch isactivated). It should be noted, however, that the sensor switch 106 hasno effect on the performance of the main power supply if it has beenalready powered-off. Preferably, this de-energizing operation occursprior to the operable disconnection between the enclosure electricalconnector 27 and the gaming machine electrical connector 26 to preventarcing. By way of example, such de-energization can occur in as littleas about 8 ms to about 16 ms prior to disconnection.

Referring back to FIG. 13, the power control circuit 108 of the presentinvention will now be described in detail. The power control circuit 108generally includes a high wattage main power supply 110 and a lowwattage communication power supply 111. The main power supply 110provides power to the game control electronics and other peripheraldevices in the system through main DC out 112, while the communicationpower supply 111 energizes the communication interface through COMM DCout 114. The main power supply 110 is generally switched on and off by amechanical switch 113. As shown, the mechanical switch 113 is coupledbetween the main power supply 110 and an AC input 115. The communicationpower supply 111 (or COMM supply) is also coupled to the AC input 115and is always energized when the gaming system is plugged into the ACoutlet.

The power control circuit 108 also includes a logic control device 103,which is powered by the COMM power supply 111. The logic control device103 is configured to monitor a low voltage power-on signal 117 generatedby the sensor switches 106. As mentioned, the sensor switch 106 isarranged to detect the insertion of the enclosure support in the gamingmachine. Correspondingly, if the logic control circuit 103 detects thatthe power-on signal 117 is at a logic low level, then the main powersupply 110 is permitted to be energized provided the AC input switch isin the “on” position. Conversely, if the logic control device 103detects that the power-on signal 117 is at a logic high level, then themain power supply 110 is arranged to be immediately de-energized, thusreturning the gaming machine 21 to a main power off state.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the events surrounding theinsertion and extraction of the CPU enclosure can be monitored andstored. That is, the first and second signals may be applied totime-stamp and record the activities associated with insertion andextraction of the CPU enclosure. By way of example, the CPU may recordthe date and time that the CPU enclosure was installed or uninstalled.It should be noted that the CPU enclosure include an internal battery toensure continuous recording regardless of whether external power issupplied to the gaming machine.

In another embodiment, the sensing device may be coupled to the leverportion of the release device of the CPU enclosure such that when thelever portion is oriented in the second position, CPU enclosure remainsenergized. Conversely, when the release device is moved from the secondposition toward the first position, the sensing device signals the mainpower supply to interrupt power to the CPU enclosure. The sensorswitches, for example, may be provided by microswitches or the like.

Referring back to FIGS. 8 and 9, the lock mechanism 51 cooperatesbetween the door 49 and the enclosure 25 to prevent unauthorizedmovement of the door from the closed position to the open position. Inthe preferred form, the lock mechanism 51 includes both a primarylocking member 118 and a secondary locking member 135. The primarylocking member is movably mounted to the door between a lockedcondition, engaging the enclosure 25 to lock the door 49 in the closedposition, and an unlocked condition, disengaging from the door to enablemovement thereof to the opened condition. Thus, the primary lockingmember 118 essentially prevents unauthorized access to the front accessspace 47, and to the important components of the CPU enclosure 25 (e.g.,external connectors, release device, CD/ROM drive), regardless ofwhether the cabinet door 29 of the gaming machine is opened.

As shown, the primary locking member 118 includes a rotor member 121rotatably mounted to the door 49, and a pair of locking bolts 122 areadapted for sliding receipt in corresponding engaging slots 123 formedin the enclosure structure for engagement therewith. The locking bolts122 rotatably coupled to the rotor member for movement between thelocked condition, where the distal tips thereof extend into thecorresponding slots 123 in the enclosure 25 to prevent hinged movementof the door from the closed position to the opened condition. Uponrotational operation of the primary locking member 118, the rotor memberurges the locking bolts 122 out of locked engagement with thecorresponding slots 123 to the unlocked condition. In this manner, thedoor 49 can be locked or unlocked by moving the locking bolts 122.

To guide the distal tip portions of the locking bolts 122 into and outof the engaging slots 123, the locking bolts 122 cooperate with a set ofcorresponding guide plates 125. These plates 125 are mounted to theinterior wall 126 of the door 49, and strategically positioned to alignthe tip portions of the locking bolts 122 into the engaging slots 123.Generally, these guide plates 125 help facilitate the translation of therotational movement of the rotor member 121 into the generally lineardisplacement of the locking bolts 122 between the locked and unlockedpositions.

FIG. 3 illustrates that a conventional lock device 127, accessible fromthe exterior wall 128 of the door 49, may be coupled to the rotor member121 for operation thereof. For example, a lock barrel-type key or thelike may be required before operation of a key head of the lock device127 could commence. However, it should be understood that other types ofkeys may be used (e.g., a conventional toothed key or an electronic keyapplication). Keys and keyholes are well known to those skilled in theart and for the sake of brevity will not be discussed in more detail. Itshould also be noted that the invention is not limited to keyed locksand that combination locks may also be used.

A second sensor switch 133 may be disposed in the socket 131 of the postmember 132 to detect whether the lock mechanism 51 is in the locked orunlocked position. In this manner, the events surrounding the lockingand unlocking of the door 49 may be monitored. By way of example, anylocking or unlocking of the lock mechanism, whether authorized orunauthorized, can be recorded, and time-stamped. More specifically, thesecond sensor switch 133 is configured to extend into the socket 131such that when the door 49 is in the closed position, and the lockmechanism 51 is moved to the locked condition (FIG. 14B), the neckportion 130 engages the second sensor switch 133 in the socket 131.Conversely, when the rotor member 121 is rotated to the unlockedposition, the neck portion 130 is displaced out of engagement from thesocket 131, and thus the second sensor switch 133. Generally, the secondsensor switch 133 generates a first signal to the internal componentswhen the second sensor switch is depressed, corresponding to the lockedposition, and generates a second signal when the switch is not engaged,corresponding to the unlocked position.

Alternatively, as further illustrated in FIG. 8, another secondarylocking arrangement 135 is provided for securing the primary lockingmember 118 in the locking condition. This locking arrangement 135includes a latch device 136 disposed adjacent the rotor member 121 alongthe interior wall of the door 49. When the primary locking member 118 isoriented in the locking condition, the secondary locking arrangement 135can be operated to rotate the latch device 136 into engagement with theneck portion 130 of the rotor member 121 to prevent rotation from thelocked condition to the unlocked condition.

In addition to the primary and secondary lock arrangements, a thirdsecurity mechanism may be provided to limit access to the externalconnectors 63 positioned in the front access space 47 of the CPUenclosure 25. In order to ensure authorized access through the externalconnectors, such as when downloading a program or the like, one of theseexternal connectors may be used as an electronic access device that isconfigured to accept an electronic key. In one implementation, a USBport is used as the electronic access device. However, it should benoted that this is not a limitation and that other connectors such asEthernet, parallel, serial may be used. In another implementation, asmart card is used as the electronic key.

The electronic key enables authorized personnel access to theelectronics inside the CPU enclosure so that a new program can bedownloaded into the CPU enclosure. By way of example, the electronic keymay be configured to give permission to write to the hard drive. Thispermission may be in the form of encrypted data that is programmed intothe memory unit of the electronic key. In a particularly advantageousembodiment, the encrypted data can be changed daily to further increasesecurity. Furthermore, the electronic key is configured to be fullycontained such that a user does not need to type a user ID or password.Further still, the system may be configured to set off an alarm if aninappropriate key is used or if no key is used. By way of example,electronic keys are described in greater detail in a co-pending patentapplication entitled, “A Key For A Gaming Machine And Method Of UseThereof”; U.S. Pat. Ser. No. 09/338,173, filed Jun. 22, 1999, and nowissued as U.S. Patent No. 6,439,996, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety for all purposes.

In a manner analogous to the sensor switches, the events surrounding theauthorized and unauthorized use of the electronic key can be monitoredand stored. By way of example, the user information that is stored inthe key can be recorded in the CPU along with the date and time of use.Accordingly, events associated with the CPU enclosure can be traced to aparticular user.

As can be seen from the foregoing, the advantages of the invention arenumerous. Different embodiments or implementations may have one or moreof the following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that theCPU enclosure is modular thereby allowing quick field service andreplacement. Another advantage of the invention is that the CPUenclosure contains a removable media mass storage device, such as, butnot limited to a CD/ROM drive. As a result, the CD/ROM drive may be usedto download software associated with the gaming machine or rundiagnostic software for determining problems.

Another advantage of the invention is the ability to lock the CPUenclosure to protect the internal components from immediate access byunwanted persons. By way of example, a primary lock, a secondary lockand an electronic key may be incorporated into the CPU enclosure toproduce a high level of system security. Another advantage of theinvention is that the CPU enclosure is designed to reduce electronicemissions. By way of example, the CPU includes vent pathways, which havehexagonal holes.

Still another advantage of the invention is that the invention providesan arrangement for inserting and/or extracting the CPU enclosure fromthe gaming machine. The insertion and extraction is advantageouslyconfigured to protect the connectors, which are used to connect the CPUenclosure and gaming machine. Still another advantage of the inventionis that the power supply of the gaming system is automatically shut offduring initial extraction of the CPU enclosure from the gaming machine.That is, the main power supply is not allowed to be energized withoutthe connectors of the CPU enclosure being installed. Accordingly,significant collateral damage caused by the accidental removal of theCPU enclosure with power applied is reduced. Yet another advantage ofthe present invention is that events surrounding CPU enclosure removal,CPU access and CPU insertion/extraction are recorded to further enhancethe security of the system.

While this invention has been described in terms of several preferredembodiments, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents, whichfall within the scope of this invention. It should also be noted thatthere are many alternative ways of implementing the methods andapparatuses of the present invention. It is therefore intended that thefollowing appended claims be interpreted as including all suchalterations, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the truespirit and scope of the present invention.

1. A removable processor enclosure apparatus for use in a gamingmachine, said gaming machine having a housing defining an interiorportion, CPU electrical components to perform gaming thereof, and afirst electrical connector disposed in said interior portion, saidenclosure apparatus comprising: an enclosure securably containing theCPU electrical components in an interior space thereof, and adapted forsliding receipt in the interior portion of the gaming machine housingbetween a mounting condition, mounting the enclosure to the housing andelectrically coupling a second electrical connector of the enclosure tothe first electrical connector of the housing, and a removal condition,enabling removal of said enclosure from the housing; a door movablymounted between an open position, allowing access to the interior space,and a closed position, preventing access to the interior space; and alock mechanism including a primary lock assembly and an independentlyoperable secondary lock assembly, said primary lock assembly includes arotor member that selectively rotates about a rotor axis between alocked condition, to lock the enclosure and the door together to thedoor in the closed position, and an unlocked condition, to unlock theenclosure and the door to enable movement of the door to the openedposition, and said secondary lock assembly being separate from saidprimary lock assembly, and radially spaced-apart from rotor axis, saidsecondary lock assembly including a latch device structured toselectively move between an unengaged condition and an engagedcondition, to contact the primary lock assembly in the locked conditionto prevent rotational movement of the rotor member to the unlockedcondition.
 2. The removable processor enclosure as recited in claim 1,wherein said door is coupled by hinges to the enclosure allowingopertion between the open position and the closed position.
 3. Theremovable processor enclosure as recited in claim 1 wherein said rotormember is rotatably mounted to the door, and primary lock assemblyincludes a locking bolt having one end pivotally mounted to the rotormember, and another end extending into a slot of the enclosure when theprimary lock assembly is moved, upon rotation of said rotor member, fromthe unlocked condition to the locked condition.
 4. The removableprocessor enclosure as recited in claim 3 wherein, said enclosureincludes a post member, defining a socket, stratgically disposed in theinterior space of the enclosure, and said rotor member includes a neckportion rotating about a rotor axis of the rotor member as the primarylock assembly moves between the unlocked condition and the lockedcondition, said neck portion being received in said socket in a mannerengaging the post member in the locked condition.
 5. The removableprocessor enclosure as recited in claim 4, wherein said latch device ofsecondary lock assembly movable from an unengaged position to an engagedposition, engaging the neck portion of the primary lock assembly toprevent rotation from the locked condition to the unlocked condition. 6.The removable processor enclosure as recited in claim 4, furtherincluding: a sensor switch disposed in said socket of the post member todetect whether the door is in the closed position, and whether theprimary lock assembly is in the locked condition.
 7. The removableprocessor enclosure as recited in claim 1 wherein, said latch devicerotates about a secondary lock axis, substantially parallel to andspaced-apart from the rotor axis of the primary lock assembly, betweenthe unengaged condition and the engaged condition.
 8. The removableprocessor enclosure as recited in claim 1, further including: a releasedevice interengaged between the gaming machine housing and theenclosure, and selectively movable between a first position, locking theenclosure in the mounting condition, and a second position, releasingthe enclosure from the mounting condition to the removal condition anddisconnecting the second electrical connector from the first electricalconnector.
 9. The removable processor enclosure as recited in claim 1further including: an external connector device electrically coupled toselected electrical components of the enclosure apparatus, andaccessible from outside of the enclosure while the enclosure is mountedto the gaming machine housing in the mounting condition.
 10. Theremovable processor enclosure as recited in claim 9, wherein theexternal connector device is selected from the group consisting of USBconnectors, Ethernet connectors, serial port connectors, parallel portconnectors.
 11. The removable processor enclosure as recited in claim 1further including: a computer readable media electrically positionedwithin the interior space of the enclosure, and coupled to theelectrical components therein.
 12. The removable processor enclosure asrecited in claim 11, wherein the computer readable media is one of aCD/ROM drive, DVD ROM drive, hard disk drive, magneto-optical diskdrive, and magnetic tape drive.
 13. A removable processor enclosureapparatus for use in a gaming machine, said gaming machine having ahousing defining an interior portion, said enclosure apparatuscomprising: an enclosure defining an interior space thereof, and adaptedfor sliding receipt in the interior portion of the gaming machinehousing between a mounting condition, mounting the enclosure to thehousing, and a removal condition, enabling removal of said enclosurefrom the housing; a door movably mounted between an opened position,allowing access to the interior space, and a closed position, preventingaccess to the interior space; and a lock mechanism including a primarylock assembly and an independently operable secondary lock assemblyspaced apart and separate from said primary lock assembly, said primarylock assembly including a rotor member having a neck portion rotatingabout a rotor axis of the rotor member between a locked condition, tolock the enclosure and the door together to lock the door in the closedposition, and an unlocked condition, to unlock the enclosure and thedoor to enable movement of the door to the opened position, and saidsecondary lock assembly including a latch device movable from anunengaged position to an engaged position, engaging the neck portion ofthe primary lock assembly to prevent rotation from the locked conditionto the unlocked condition.
 14. The removable processor enclosure asrecited in claim 13 wherein said rotor member is rotatably mounted tothe door, and primary lock assembly includes a locking bolt having oneend pivotally mounted to the rotor member, and another end extendinginto a slot of the enclosure when the primary lock assembly is moved,upon rotation of said rotor member, from the unlocked condition to thelocked condition.
 15. The removable processor enclosure as recited inclaim 13 wherein, said enclosure includes a post member, defining asocket, strategically disposed in the interior space of the enclosure,and said neck portion of the rotor member being received in said socketin a manner engaging the post member in the locked condition.
 16. Theremovable processor enclosure as recited in claim, 15 wherein said latchdevice of the secondary lock assembly is movable from an unengagedposition to an engaged position, engaging the neck portion of theprimary lock assembly to prevent rotation from the locked condition tothe unlocked condition.
 17. A removable processor enclosure apparatusfor use in a gaming machine, said gaming machine having a housingdefining an interior portion, said enclosure apparatus comprising: anenclosure defining an interior space thereof, and adapted for slidingreceipt in the interior portion of the gaming machine housing between amounting condition, mounting the enclosure to the housing, and a removalcondition, enabling removal of said enclosure from the housing; arelease device including a manually operable portion disposed in theinterior space, said release device formed to be interengaged betweenthe gaming machine housing and the enclosure, and selectively movablebetween a first position, retaining the enclosure in the mountingcondition, and a second position, releasing the enclosure from themounting condition to the removal condition; a door movably mountedbetween an opened position, enabling access to the manually operableportion of the release device for operation thereof, and a closedposition, enclosing at least the manually operable portion of therelease device inside the enclosure to prevent accessible operationthereof; and a lock mechanism including a primary lock assembly and anindependently operable secondary lock assembly, said primary lockassembly operable between a locked condition, to lock the enclosure andthe door together to lock the door in the closed position, and anunlocked condition, to unlock the enclosure and the door to enablemovement of the door to the opened position, and said secondary lockassembly movable from an unengaged position to an engaged position,engaging the primary lock assembly to prevent movement thereof from thelocked condition to the unlocked condition.
 18. The removable processorenclosure as recited in claim 17 wherein said primary lock assemblyincludes a rotor member rotatably mounted to the door, and a lockingbolt having one end pivotally mounted to the rotor member, and anotherend extending into a slot of the enclosure when the primary lockassembly is moved, upon rotation of said rotor member, from the unlockedcondition to the locked condition.
 19. The removable processor enclosureas recited in claim 18 wherein, said rotor member includes a neckportion rotating about a rotor axis of the rotor member as the primarylock assembly moves between the unlocked condition and the lockedcondition, and said secondary lock assembly includes a latch deviceconfigured movable from an unengaged position to an engaged position,engaging the neck portion of the primary lock assembly to preventrotation from the locked condition to the unlocked condition.